“OPERATIONAL SUCCESS IS NO LONGER DEFINED SOLELY BY KINETIC DOMINANCE, BUT BY OUR ABILITY TO BUILD TRUST”

Abuja, FCT | March 24, 2026

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has highlighted the evolving nature of modern warfare, emphasizing that operational success now depends not only on kinetic superiority but also on trust-building and people-centred engagement.

Speaking at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Civil–Military Relations Conference themed “Leveraging Civil-Military Relations for Enhanced Operational Efficiency”, Air Marshal Aneke stated, “In today’s complex security environment, operational success is no longer defined solely by kinetic dominance, but by our ability to build trust, foster cooperation, and integrate the human dimension into air operations.” He stressed that strengthening relationships with civil populations remains central to his command philosophy of developing a professional, agile, and people-focused Air Force anchored on precision, accountability, and strategic effectiveness.

The CAS revealed that the NAF has repositioned civil–military relations as a critical operational enabler through enhanced community engagement, institutionalized feedback mechanisms, and strengthened strategic communication across operational theatres. These measures are designed to ensure operations remain effective, responsible, and transparent.

As part of these efforts, Air Marshal Aneke cited the approval of compensation for victims of the accidental airstrike in Sokoto, as well as the execution of Special Intervention Projects in Kwara, Rivers, Delta, Kano, and Akwa Ibom States. Initiatives such as medical outreaches and infrastructure support have significantly strengthened public trust and cooperation. He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support, noting that his leadership provides the strategic direction and resources necessary for the NAF to fulfil its mandate effectively.

In his opening remarks, the Chief of Civil–Military Relations, Edward Gabkwet, highlighted the growing importance of non-kinetic operations in contemporary air warfare. He noted that the establishment of the Civil–Military Relations Branch in July 2024 was a deliberate step to strengthen community engagement, ensure human rights compliance, and enhance perception management.

Since its creation, the Branch has implemented initiatives including the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan, the establishment of a Civilian Harm Mitigation Department at the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre, and a dedicated digital complaints platform to promote accountability and transparency.

The one-day conference brought together Civilian Harm Mitigation Desk Officers from NAF field commands and units, alongside stakeholders from academia, media, and civil institutions, reinforcing the NAF’s commitment to a people-centred, accountable, and strategically effective air force.

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